Nearly two thirds of Europe’s workers say they experience Impostor Syndrome 

A new survey by AI-based career tool Kickresume claims that impostor syndrome remains a widespread issue across European workplaces, affecting both personal wellbeing and professional development. The study, which surveyed nearly 2,000 people, revealed that 63 percent of workers in Europe have experienced impostor syndrome at some point. More than half—56 percent—said they had turned down or missed out on opportunities as a result of these feelings of self-doubt.

Respondents reported a variety of ways impostor syndrome manifests in their lives. Nearly half (49 percent) said it leads to negative self-talk, while 43 percent admitted it results in procrastination. Forty-two percent become anxious when delegating tasks, and 40 percent said they respond to their feelings of inadequacy by overworking. Sleep disruption is also a concern, with 33 percent reporting it affects their rest, and 23 percent said they fear losing their jobs because of impostor syndrome.

The findings suggest that certain groups are more vulnerable. Generation X workers and those in senior roles are particularly likely to respond by overworking—half of each group reported doing so.

Beyond mental wellbeing, the syndrome has a measurable impact on workers’ careers. Forty percent struggle to ask for better pay, 39 percent said it hampers their decision-making, and 36 percent feel unable to say no to additional work. More than seven in ten workers (73 percent) believe impostor syndrome has slowed their career progression, with over a quarter (26 percent) describing the impact as significant.

When asked how they respond to job descriptions that include skills they do not feel confident in, 37 percent said they hesitate but still apply. However, 29 percent said they overthink the decision to the point of not applying at all. While 18 percent view job listings as merely suggestive and proceed with confidence, 16 percent avoid applying altogether. These findings raise concerns about how many capable candidates may be self-selecting out of opportunities.

Feelings of impostor syndrome are often influenced by identity. Forty-four percent of respondents said their gender, ethnicity or socioeconomic background played a role in their self-doubt, and 16 percent said these factors were a significant contributor.

When asked what might help, 55 percent said that gaining more training or experience could reduce their impostor syndrome. Just over half (51 percent) said regular performance feedback would be beneficial. Others said they would feel reassured if they knew others felt the same way (40 percent), or if they received more praise and encouragement (also 40 percent).

To better understand the nuances of impostor syndrome, Kickresume worked with Dr Valerie Young, co-founder of the Impostor Syndrome Institute, to identify different subtypes. The most common among European workers were “The Perfectionist” and “The Expert,” each cited by 32 percent of participants. Sixteen percent identified with “The Soloist,” who finds it difficult to ask for help, while 11 percent resonated with “The Superhuman,” who feels the need to excel in all areas of life. Nine percent related most to “The Natural Genius,” who believes they must be instantly competent to succeed.